BICKERSTOCK 2024
Sat 12 noon – 11pm, Sun 12 noon – 9pm
Band Applications are NOW CLOSED. See the main menu for the Line Up
Stall Applications are now Closed.
Camping Applications are now closed.
Access to the Festival is free and all performers and helpers are giving their time for free. However one of our key aims is to raise funds for local and national charities. All profits from the sales of food and drink go towards our fund raising efforts. All commercial traders on site have agreed to contribute a percentage of their profits to the fund. Please support our efforts by making donations and enjoy the many food and drink outlets available.
Friday Evening
Come and join us in the Marquee, the bar will be open. The West Lancs Big Band will be performing Jazz , Swing and popular classics on the Friday night from 8pm. Hotpot will be served from 7.30pm. All Welcome.
ONCE UPON A TIME….The Story Behind Bickerstock
You may not know it, but tucked away in the lanes of Bickerstaffe was a recording studio called Dead Frog Studios, run by a nice bloke called Paul Draper. It was in this studio that Paul first dreamt up the idea for the Bickerstaffe Community Free Music Festival: ‘Bickerstock’, as it became known.Read more…Close
The first two festivals were held in the field outside the Stanley Gate Pub – convenient since festival goers and bands could pop in for a beer! These days Bickerstock takes place at Bickerstaffe Parish Field, on Hall Lane.
Over the years, more and more locals have come together to support Paul’s vision. The committee has evolved and now includes a cross-section of the community.
In the past, the festival has enjoyed support from international Soca music legend and Trinidadian, Sheldon Blackman, and world renowned classical steel drummer and amazingly versatile musician, Clifton Harrydass. Sheldon managed to fit Bickerstock into his busy schedule in 2019, and both artists are always very welcome in Bickerstaffe!
THE FESTIVAL AIMS;
- TO PROMOTE LIVE MUSIC
Bickerstock gives up-and-coming local musicians the opportunity to perform alongside established musicians, and gives the people of West Lancs the opportunity to hear local talent. Read more…Close
There are Open Mic sessions hosted by various artists on the Bar Stage throughout the weekend, and these are a firm favourite, giving local up-and-coming artists the opportunity to showcase their talents.
- TO BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER
Residents from Bickerstaffe and beyond are made welcome, and many locals get involved in helping to organise and run the event.Read more…Close
Community organisations are encouraged to get involved with the running and organisation of the festival. It’s a great opportunity for people to come together and enjoy music, fresh air and (fingers crossed) some sunshine.
Local businesses can get involved, offering sponsorship in return for an advert in our festival printed programme.
- TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY
Over the years Bickerstock has raised thousands of pounds for local good causes and charities, including a donation to the refurbishment of the Bickerstaffe Mission building;Read more…Close
In the words of Sheldon Blackman, “It’s all good!”